What is LiDAR? (And How You Can Use It)

Mar 24

LiDAR is transforming how we inventory, plan, and manage terrain and structures. Whether you're a developer, forester, landowner, realtor, insurance professional or emergency services responder, you may have heard about the BC government initiative to make LiDAR data more accessible.

So… what exactly is LiDAR, and how can it help you?

🛰 What is LiDAR, in Simple Terms?

LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. It uses laser light to measure distances and create incredibly detailed 3D models of the land—capturing terrain, vegetation, and buildings with remarkable accuracy.

Think of it as a scanning tool that “sees or detects” surfaces to generate accurate maps or plans.

🌲 Why is the BC Government Investing in LiDAR?

The province of British Columbia has launched LiDARBC to centralize and share high-quality elevation data across the province. The goal?
To support decision-making in areas like:

Forestry and wildfire prevention
Floodplain and landslide risk mapping
Infrastructure planning and development
Environmental protection and climate resilience

This data is now available through an open-access platform and is expanding every year.

🛠 How Can You Use LiDAR?

Even with access to free LiDAR data, making use of data can be… overwhelming. That’s where we come in.

At Rekol 5D, we offer LiDAR scanning, analysis, and 3D modeling serv to help capture data and turn data into meaningful insights. Our aim is to help “recall and bring back to mind the places and structures that matter to you”.

Use our services to: